- Trump threatens to impose a 100% tariff on all goods from any country that imposes a digital services tax on American companies.
- In a social media post, Trump stated that the new tariff would supersede any trade deals with the U.S.
- Trump's post specifically mentioned numerous European countries considering the implementation of digital services taxes.
- A small propeller aircraft crashed into Beijing’s tallest building, the Citic Tower, causing debris to fall in the central business district.
- Video footage showed minor damage to a high floor of the 528-metre Citic Tower, which houses the headquarters of a state-owned financial services group.
- Trump has previously vowed to retaliate against countries imposing digital services taxes, claiming they unfairly target U.S. tech giants.
- The Citic Tower, also known as 'China Zun', is a landmark skyscraper in Beijing, inspired by a ritual Bronze Age vessel.
- China maintains some of the world’s strictest controls over its airspace, particularly around urban areas like Beijing.
President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning, threatening a 100% tariff on goods from any country that imposes a digital services tax on U.S. companies. In a social media post, he stated, "This TARIFF will supersede Trade Deals made with the Country, whether implemented, signed, or not," emphasizing that the tariffs would be "immediately imposed" if countries proceed with their tax plans. Trump has previously retaliated against similar taxes, notably cutting off trade talks with Canada over its proposed version.1
On the same day, a small propeller aircraft crashed into Beijing's Citic Tower, the tallest building in the city, causing minor damage. Video footage showed debris falling from the skyscraper, which houses the headquarters of a state-owned financial services group. Witnesses reported seeing broken windows and fragments falling from the building. "Chinese President Xi Jinping would 'instantly presume the worst' about the incident," said Dennis Wilder, former head of China analysis at the CIA. The pilot of the aircraft, identified as a Sunward SA60L Aurora, noted that flying in the area is strictly prohibited, raising questions about airspace security in the capital.457
Trump's threats come amid ongoing discussions among numerous European countries about implementing their own digital services taxes, which he claims unfairly target U.S. tech giants. The legality of imposing such tariffs remains uncertain, as courts have previously struck down similar attempts by his administration.3
“Donald Trump has reiterated his threat of imposing a 100% tariff on countries that implement a digital services tax on American firms. Meanwhile, a small plane has crashed into Beijing's Citic Tower, raising concerns about airspace security.”
The Guardian
politico.eu
